Afrika
on Goodreads (137)
What’s inside...
For thirteen-year-old Kim, travel to South Africa with her journalist mother marks the end of her childhood and the start of a remarkable journey. As Kim learns about the country's diverse and often shocking history through the Truth and Reconciliation Hearings in post-apartheid South Africa, she begins to understand the depth of its segregationist policies. Meeting her relatives and schoolmates, Kim realizes her deep connection to the country's history. As her mother confronts her own past, Kim is determined to uncover the secret of her father's identity. With the help of the son of a family servant, who is also impacted by Apartheid, Kim unravels the mystery, leading to a personal truth and reconciliation for her and her mother. This layered and complex novel challenges beliefs and raises poignant questions.
Age
12-15
Length
242 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Kim Van Der Merwe
Themba
Sarah Van Der Merwe
Discussion points
What do you think it would be like to live in a different country like the characters in the book?
How did the friendships in the story change over time and why do you think they evolved that way?
What were some challenges the characters faced and how did they overcome them?
Why is it important to learn about and understand different cultures?
What did you learn about bravery and courage from the characters in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on the book's setting and ask your child what they imagine it would be like to live there.
Discuss the importance of friendship and ask your child to talk about their own friendships and how they compare to those in the book.
Encourage your child to think critically by asking them how they would handle similar challenges faced by the characters.
Use the book's cultural themes as a springboard to explore more about the country and its traditions together.
Highlight examples of courage in the book and relate them to real-life scenarios your child might encounter, discussing different ways to act bravely.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding diversity
Explanation: The book 'Afrika' exposes children to diverse cultures and environments, specifically focusing on South Africa's rich history and landscapes.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and respect different cultures and ways of life, which is essential in today's global society.
Example Lesson: Importance of courage and resilience
Explanation: The protagonist of 'Afrika' faces various challenges and changes, teaching readers about bravery in the face of adversity.
Real-World Application: Children learn to be brave when encountering new or challenging situations in their own lives, fostering a resilient spirit.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship and trust
Explanation: Throughout the story, the central character builds meaningful relationships that highlight the importance of trust and companionship.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to forge strong, trustworthy relationships in their own lives, understanding the mutual benefits of friendship.
Example Lesson: Consequences of choices
Explanation: The book delves into the outcomes of various decisions made by the characters, illustrating the impact of choices.
Real-World Application: Children learn to think about the potential outcomes of their decisions and act responsibly.